In the serene landscapes of Vermont, two remarkable sculptures by Jim Sardonis capture the imagination and symbolize the fragility of our planet. These sculptures, “Whale Dance” and its precursor “Reverence,” are not only artistic marvels but also poignant reminders of nature’s beauty and vulnerability.
“Reverence,” created in 1989, depicts two whale tails diving into a sea of grass. This sculpture, made from 36 tons of African black granite, stands 12 to 13 feet tall and was originally installed in Randolph, Vermont. It was commissioned as a grand entrance piece for a planned conference center that never materialized.
Photos by Stephen Mease |
Despite this, “Reverence” became a beloved landmark, symbolizing the en vironmental fragility of our planet. In 1999, the sculpture was relocated to Technology Park in South Burlington, where it continues to captivate visitors.
Inspired by a powerful dream, Sardonis envisioned a pair of whale tails emerging from the water, dancing in the surf. This vision led to the creation of “Whale Dance,” a bronze sculpture installed in July 2019 at the original site of “Reverence” in Randolph, Vermont. Standing 16 feet tall, “Whale Dance” is the tallest piece ever completed by Sardonis. The use of bronze allowed for more intricate and dynamic forms, giving the whales a sense of movement and grace.
For more information
- ptvermont.org
- sardonis.com/reverence\